Fall cruise lineup runs from baseball to bikers

Irene S. Levine, Special to Tribune Newspapers

Here's a sample of theme cruises, offered by cruise lines or tour operators, that will bring kindred spirits together on the high seas this fall:

Baseball fans — Perfect for rabid fans in postseason withdrawal are two Baseball Greats cruises to the Western Caribbean on the MSC Poesia. Former Yankees pitcher Stan Bahnsen will emcee player-hosted trivia, a guest pitching contest and storytelling with other former major leaguers on board. Departing Fort Lauderdale on Nov. 19 for seven nights and on Dec. 6 for 10 nights, the cost begins at $549 per person. 877-665-4655, msccruisesusa.com

Bikers — The High Seas Rally seven-night cruise on Royal Caribbean's Freedom of the Seas departs from Port Canaveral, Fla., on Oct 30. Bikers join others who share their passions at Pirate Bingo and a Belly Smacker Contest; the dinner dress code is biking attire. As many as 35 passengers can bring their own bikes on the ship and roll them into port. Passengers with a current rally logo tattoo get $50. Fares for two people start at $1,876, including fees. 800-444-8795, highseasrally.com

Policy wonks — Cruisers on the Regent Seven Seas Mariner will hobnob with journalists from NPR and PBS on a 10-night Mediterranean voyage departing from Venice on Nov. 10. The media stars will give lectures, and wine and dine with cruisers. Prices for this luxury cruise (including unlimited shore excursions) start at $5,799 per person. 877-505-5370, rssc.com

Aspiring rock stars — The four-night Sixthman Kiss Kruise to the Bahamas on the Carnival Destiny departs from Miami on Oct 13. Fans will be treated to indoor and outdoor concerts. Hard rockers Bad City also are in the lineup. Fares start at $895 per person. 800-764-7419, carnival.com

Fees and government taxes additional; rates based on double occupancy and subject to change. For other theme cruises, visit cruisecritic.com.